THE Health Apex Council has announced their decision to resume work but vowed to resume the industrial action in 14 days, should the employer, the Health Service Board (HSB) fail to engage the healthcare workers meaningfully.
By Staff Reporter
Healthcare workers in Zimbabwe had downed tools on Monday 20 June, 2022, leading to a five day long nationwide industrial action which almost crippled the entire healthcare system. The strike was prompted by failure by government to engage healthcare workers and review their salaries which according to healthcare workers, have been rendered useless by the inflationary environment.
In a statement, Health Apex Council Team Leader, Dr Tapiwanashe Kusotera said they have decided to temporarily pause the industrial action.
The leaders of the Health Associations after considering the plight of the public, have resolved to temporarily adjourn the industrial action and request the healthcare to resume service,” said Dr Kusotera.
He added that this has been done to prevent further and unnecessary loss of life and avoid an avoidable health catastrophe.
“It is the hope of the employees that the employer will immediately table a meaningful offer, addressing all the matters raised by workers. Should the employer fail to table a meaningful offer, one that addresses the plight of the worker in 14 days from receipt of this letter, the employees will have no option left but to withdraw service without notice.”
He said the decision was taken in good faith that the HSB would engage the healthcare workers without any prejudice.
